There is an age span of ten years between our eight children... five boys and three girls. The years when they were young were the busiest years of our lives. They also were the years in which our children were to learn the most important things in their lives ... which would be only everything they would be required to have as a foundation if they were to develop into proud young adults.

Being human... there were many days that I needed somthing that would let me know we all were going to survive and be fine... a guide to bring me back to center on those days in which center was always missed.

For that reason.. I kept a framed copy of the poem below hanging on the wall where I had to walk by it everyday.

It saved many a day for all of us.

It still hangs in the same spot to this day.

Perhaps it will help you too.

Children Learn What They Live

If a child lives with criticism,

he learns to condemn.

If a child lives with hostility,

he learns to fight.

If a child lives with ridicule,

he learns to be shy.

If a child lives with shame,

he learns to feel guilty.

If a child lives with tolerance,

he learns to be patient.

If a child lives with encouragement,

he learns confidence.

If a child lives with praise,

he learns to appreciate.

If a child lives with fairness,

he learns justice.

If a child lives with security,

he learns to have faith.

If a child lives with approval,

he learns to like himself

If a child lives with acceptance and friendship,

he learns to find love in the world.

Dorothy Law Holtz

Value the children in your life enough to be aware of what you are teaching them by example... the strongest teacher of all.